RIDING a bike is a great, cheap form of exercise, whether you rely on the trusty pushie to get to work or for tearing down a mountain track on the weekends.

But the wrong bike will not be much use to you, so choosing the correct two-wheeled peddle power is an important step to saving you money.

Bill Kearney from South Tweed Bicycles had all the right tips for us when it comes to saving money on bicycles, from helmets to the right peddle and seat for your application.

"If you want to ride to work or race on the weekends it is obviously important to choose the right bike for the job," Mr Kearney said.

You don't even have to spend the life savings to get a good bike, says Bill, who says mid-range bicycles are perfect for the average Joe.

"A good quality mid-range bike will set you back about $500 to $650 and will last longer than cheaply made knock-offs," he said. He said fitting a bike was just as important as getting the right size shirt of pair of pants - they had to fit well.

"There are usually four to six frame sizes in each style of brand of bike and it is critical you get the right size frame for your height, weight and ability."

"It is like buying a pair of shoes, if you get the right fit they are comfortable and last longer."

There a so many options on the market these days from road racers, downhill bikes, BMX bikes and now the latest craze are fixies.

These stylish looking peddle powered machines are simplified versions of a standard bike, normally not having hand operated breaks on the handle bars.

Tips

• Get a lightweight, ventilated mid-range helmet from $60
• It is illegal to ride a bike without a front and rear brake
• Get your bike serviced regularly to increase its lifespan
• Check your brake and brakelines regularly
• Use the right tyre for the job, good rubber makes all the different as a bike will be faster and easier to ride with the right tyre

Got a Bargain Hunter topic you want explored? Email editor@mydailynews.com.au